Storm intensifies in Latvia: gusts reach 31 metres per second in Daugavgrīva

An exceptionally powerful storm swept across Latvia on Saturday evening, described as the most destructive since January 2005. According to data compiled by the Latvian Environment, Geology and Meteorology Centre, the strongest winds were recorded in Daugavgrīva, Riga, where gusts reached 31 metres per second.

Conditions elsewhere

Elsewhere in Latvia, wind speeds were somewhat lower by 11 p.m. but still significant. Strong winds were reported in Bauska, Jelgava, Kolka, Mērsrags, Rēzekne, Skrīveri and Ventspils, where gusts exceeded 20 to 23 metres per second, though none matched the levels seen in Daugavgrīva.

Forecast and impact

Riga deputy mayor Edvards Ratnieks said forecasts indicate the wind should gradually weaken in the capital, though gusts could still reach up to 25 metres per second until around 3 a.m.

The storm has already caused considerable damage. Ratnieks reported that Riga's State Fire and Rescue Service received approximately 300 calls about fallen trees during the evening, including 42 calls within a single 20-minute period, indicating a rapid escalation of incidents.

The storm crossed the entire territory of Latvia on Saturday, accompanied by very heavy rain. Orange, yellow and red warnings were issued nationwide for strong wind and heavy rainfall, including in Riga.